1. You Can Support a Cause That Reflects Your Values

A charitable legacy allows you to continue helping the organisations that matter to you whether that’s a medical charity, an animal shelter, a community initiative, or a faith-based cause. It’s a way of ensuring your values endure.

2. It Can Reduce Inheritance Tax

Under current rules, leaving at least 10% of your estate to registered charities may lower the overall Inheritance Tax rate from 40% to 36%. Your gift can therefore benefit both the charity and your beneficiaries. We can help you structure your Will so that your estate is managed as efficiently as possible.

3. You Create a Positive, Long-Term Impact

Many charities rely heavily on legacy donations. Your gift can support research, fund community services, or help future generations in ways that simply aren’t possible through one-off donations.

4. Your Loved Ones Are Still Protected

Charitable giving does not mean compromising your family’s inheritance. Our team can help you strike the right balance so your Will reflects both your family’s needs and your charitable intentions.

Types of Gifts You Can Leave

There are several straightforward ways to include a gift to charity in your Will:

• Pecuniary Gift

A fixed sum of money left to a charity.

• Residuary Gift

A percentage of your estate after all other gifts and expenses have been paid. This type of gift often has the greatest long-term impact because it maintains its value over time.

• Specific Gift

A particular item such as jewellery, property, or artwork  left to a charity.

We can guide you through each option to ensure your gift is allocated exactly as you intend.

‍What Information Do You Need to Include?

To make sure your gift reaches the right organisation, your Will should include the charity’s:

• Full registered name
• Charity number
• Registered address

We can check these details for you and ensure they are recorded accurately in your Will.

Can You Change Your Mind Later?

Your Will can be updated at any time. As your circumstances, priorities, or financial situation change, you can revise or remove a charitable gift. We make amendments simple and straightforward.

How Lyons Bowe Can Help

Our Wills & Probate Team will:

• Guide you through the options for charitable giving
• Make sure your Will is legally valid and clearly reflects your wishes
• Advise you on tax implications
• Ensure your family and chosen beneficiaries are fully protected
• Keep your Will secure within our complimentary Will storage service

We are proud to support clients who choose to make a difference through legacy giving, and we work closely with charities through our own Charity Wills Scheme.

Ready to Make or Update Your Will?

Whether you’re writing your first Will or updating an existing one, including a charitable gift is a meaningful and powerful way to shape the future.

To speak with our Wills & Probate Team or to book an appointment, contact your nearest Lyons Bowe office or visit www.lyonsbowe.co.uk

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